Bike Tour: From Pisa to Florence, via Lucca and Vinci - 7 days

Arrive at your hotel in Pisa and take a peaceful and relaxing stroll through the narrow streets of this charming city. Sit down for a glass of local Chianti wine and savor the amazing olive oil produced in the region's vineyards. Before calling it a night, promenade past the chapels and pastel houses lining the banks of the Arno River.

Short route: An easy warm up ride along small roads and bike paths leads you into the heart of Pisa where you can visit the world famous Miracle Square along with its illustrious leaning tower. Admire the many palaces, churches, towers and town squares. Take a break in the Piazza dei Cavalieri as you gaze at the architecturally stunning historic buildings that surround you. Long route: Begin your day cycling through the inspiring countryside between Pisa and the mountain of Monte Serra, stopping for a visit to the grandiose Certosa of Calci monastery. It was founded in 1366 and houses a magnificent, renowned Natural History Museum. The second part of the day is spent in Pisa, as in the short route, visiting its many outstanding monuments.

Long route: Begin your day cycling through the inspiring countryside between Pisa and the mountain of Monte Serra, stopping for a visit to the grandiose Certosa of Calci monastery. It was founded in 1366 and houses a magnificent, renowned Natural History Museum. The second part of the day is spent in Pisa, as in the short route, visiting its many outstanding monuments.

Challenge: 1.5/2.5 hours, 25/33 km, 120/90m ascent, 120/90m descent

Today’s ride is very scenic and nearly all flat. The route follows the Serchio River and after 25 kilometres, you reach the charming town of Lucca. You have ample time to visit the town and explore its splendid gardens, majestic bell tower and impressive Piazza Anfiteatro, a 2nd century Roman amphitheater. Don’t miss a ride along the tree-lined walls of its perimeter.

Challenge: 2/3 hours, 24/32.5 km, 80/100m ascent, 80/100m descent

Choose between two trips of varying difficulty on today’s visit of characteristic Renaissance villas in the outskirts of Lucca. Both trips are similar in length, but the easy route is almost entirely flat whereas the hilly route has more height variation and offers enviable aerial views. Experience tours of assorted prestigious villas and stroll their extraordinarily luxurious gardens.

Challenge: 2.5/3.5 hours, 33/39 km, 170/450m ascent, 170/450m descent

Ride past Altopascio and the fascinating Padule of Fucecchio nature reserve, the largest inland wetlands of Europe. Marvel at the delightful all-encompassing greenness and perhaps you will spot some migratory birds enjoying a well-deserved rest on their way south. Feeling rejuvenated, you cycle on to Vinci, where the famous inventor/artists Leonardo da Vinci was born.

Challenge: 3/4 hours, 29/54 km, 250/270m ascent, 250/270m descent

Gain insight on the genius of Leonardo da Vinci as you explore his birthplace and two remarkable museums all about him. Amass insight by viewing his original designs and inventions. When you're ready, leave your bike at the accommodation in Vinci and take a transfer directly to Empoli to board a local train to Florence, for a night in the jewel of the Renaissance.

Challenge: 1/2 hours, 8/15 km, 175/450m ascent, 175/450m descent